A majority of Germans support the introduction of a tax on sugary drinks, according to a survey. A Forsa poll commissioned by “Stern” and RTL found that 55 percent of the nation’s citizens approve of such a special levy, while 44 percent hold that it is not practical, and one percent answered “don’t know.”
The German government plans to reduce the consumption of colas and sodas by implementing this tax, citing that these beverages are one of the main causes of overweight and obesity in Germany. The amount of the tax would depend on the sugar content of the specific drink, and industry associations estimate that the state could generate up to four billion euros in revenue including value-added tax.
However, the tax faces resistance, particularly from people in Eastern Germany and supporters of the AfD party. Initially, the government faced heavy debate and some confusion over whether other products, such as fruit juices, non-alcoholic beer, or milk drinks, should also be taxed. There was also internal opposition within the government against taxing zero-sugar drinks, causing Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) to withdraw the plans from his ministry after a short period.
The Green Party supporters most strongly welcome the introduction of the special tax, with 87 percent expressing their support. Moreover, most supporters of the ruling parties back the decision: 76 percent of CDU/CSU supporters approve of the sugar tax, and 77 percent of SPD supporters are in favor.
